Shetland Sheepdog (Sheltie): Breeders, Price, and Puppies for Sale

The Shetland Sheepdog is also known as Shetland Collie or Sheltie.

The Sheltie is a dog that resembles the Scottish Shepherd Dog, and these two dog breeds are often confused. The Sheltie is the original and unique dog from the Shetland Islands, which was born and raised to shepherd and protect the cattle of these famous islands, located near Scotland.

The Shetland Sheepdog is officially recognized, and it forms part of the group of Shepherd and Cattle Dogs. Its origins are from Scotland, we can say that it is a small-sized dog, but there is a lot more to tell about this fluffy friend. It is not a very popular dog in Spain, but maybe it will gain popularity once people realize that this dog is one of the most intelligent dogs in the World. Its original name is Shetland Sheepdog, but also it is known as Sheltie.

This dog’s nature, habits and temperament, are typical of a shepherd dog. It has a well-proportioned and harmonious body structure, and it has the character to protect the cattle. The Sheltie is also an excellent companion dog and it can be used as a guardian dog as well. Certainly, we can say that it is the champion of agility, one of its main features. With strangers is a little mistrustful, but decent and understanding, with a little time it becomes more affectionate.

Shetland Sheepdog: Origins

The name Shetland Sheepdog, refers to its geographical origins, the Shetland Islands, located a few miles near Scotland.

Some experts assure that this dog breed was created from the crossing of the Scottish Shepherd Dog and the Iceland Yakkin (a little Iceland dog, which is not recognized officially as a dog breed, but you can find it among the whaling hunters as a dog pet).

The Shetland Sheepdog was born to watch and lead the sheep cattle through the inaccessible areas of the island, which is beautiful but has a rocky landscape. This dog breed was officially recognized in the year 1909 and it was included in the historical records of the US in 1911; nowadays we can say that it is a highly popular dog breed in the UK. You can find specimens more easily in its homeland, but also in its European neighbor countries.

Unfortunately, in countries such as Australia, Canada and South Africa, they are difficult to find, but there are many excellent breeders that raise morphologically perfect puppies and in exceptionally good conditions.

Shetland Sheepdog: Physical Characteristics

It is very similar to the Scottish Shepherd Dog, but the Sheltie weights around 13-17 lb (6-8 kg) and has a height of 15 inches to the withers (40 cm). Females have smaller body proportions. The Shetland Sheepdog’s coat is gorgeous and colorful, its most common colors are: every shade of beige and tricolor: black, white and tan. You can also find some specimens of merle color, or simply black and white; and although they are very rare to find, they are officially accepted by the standard.

Every color and shade is appreciated. The Sheltie’s hair has a short, thick and soft undercoat. Its eyes are dark-brown and almond-shaped, and usually they are very big. The ears are medium-sized, straight and point forward.

Shetland Sheepdog: Temperament

The Shetland Sheepdog is intelligent and self-confident, it has a strong and determined character, and also it is lively, cheerful and enjoys its job as a shepherd dog.

A shepherd dog must have clear ideas, and this little dog certainly has them; it is not aggressive or fearful, in fact, it has a courageous temperament. It is the perfect playmate for children and extremely protective with them. The Sheltie presents itself as a great friend; it is generous, affectionate and trustful. It never shows anger or aggressiveness.

The owner of a Shetland Sheepdog must be a true leader that conveys happiness and teaches commands coherently. This dog breed is easy to train, therefore is a perfectly hard-working dog, a gorgeous show dog, and the ideal companion for family life.

Shetland Sheepdog: Puppies

In Australia, the US and the UK, you can find registered breeders, but this dog breed still needs to spread its value worldwide, as we mentioned before it is one of the most intelligent dogs in the World, and knows how to defend its title as a working and family dog; and even if it is not very fond of strangers, it knows how to handle the every situation without being hostile.

The Sheltie’s coat, which sometimes can be multicolored, must be brushed regularly to avoid entanglement, and to remove traces of dirt and dust. As for its feeding, it is necessary to give it a healthy, varied and well-balanced diet, like with every four-legged friend. It does not have any specific restrictions, but its meals must be healthy and provide it with the energy it needs.

Shetland Sheepdog: Price, Breeders, and Puppies for Sale

The price of a Shetland Sheepdog puppy can be of 800-1100 dollars, 600-900 English pounds. You must be careful when browsing online to purchase your puppy; you could find some dogs cross with similar dog breeds.

You can ask for a pedigree certificate, which allows you to check your dog breed´s purity. Remember that this is a highly valued dog, as it is one of the most intelligent dogs in the World.

The lifespan of a Shetland Sheepdog can be around 12-15 years of age, but only if it is raised properly with a healthy diet, regular exercises and of course providing your friend with all the affection it deserves.

Now that we have mentioned the most important aspects, you can go to your new four-legged friend, who is certainly waiting for you.

You may be interested in reading another article related to other dog breeds such as:

• Miniature Pinscher
• West Highland White Terrier
• Australian Terrier
• Xoloitzcuintli
• Peruvian Inca Orchid
• Norfolk Terrier
• Scottish Terrier
• Papillon and Phalène
• Shetland Sheepdog